Permits & Reservations

Permits help ensure the preservation of wilderness areas for future generations.

NPS Photo/Cate Blanch

 

Permitting For Special Activities

A permit in Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument is for some kind of very specific activity, like backpacking or providing tours. Permitting helps protect the life residing in the monument by ensuring those who receive permits understand how to interact safely within wilderness areas and understand the regulations which help preserve these natural lands for these and future generations.

The Entrance Fee and Camping Fees cover most activities that visitors enjoy within the monument. Most visitors to Organ Pipe Cactus do not need to worry about permits since many activities in the monument can be done without need for more specific regulations.

What Activities Require a Permit?

Filming and Still Photography Permit

Visit the Commercial Filming and Photography page to learn more about applying. Permits are required for any still photography or filming which involve props, models, social media influencers, professional crews and casts or set dressings. Be aware that 95% of our monument is designated Wilderness, which provides restrictions to how photography may be done, including not permitting drones to fly in wilderness areas. Contact the Special Use Permit Coordinator to receive a permit application.

Special Use Permit

Special Use Permits are required for weddings, special events, religious gatherings, first amendment demonstrations, or anynontraditional or unusual uses and activities. Contact the Special Use Permit Coordinator to receive a permit application.

Commercial Use Permit (CUA)

This permit is commonly used for businesses that would like to operate guide services in the parks. A business or an individual must obtain this permit prior to conducting any commercial activity in Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument. For the CUA application and for its submission, please contact the Commercial Use Permit Coordinator.

Climbing Permit

Climbing certain peaks in the monument such as Montezuma's Head or other technical routes requires a climbing permit. Please fill out a climbing permit application and email it to the Special Use Permit Coordinator.

Backcountry Permit

Visit the Backcountry Camping page to learn more about camping in the wilderness of Organ Pipe Cactus. Backcountry permits may only be completed and submitted after talking with a ranger at the Kris Eggle Visitor Center.